Winter calls for dishes that warm the body and comfort the soul and rice is a staple that rises to the occasion. It doesn’t take long to cook and can take on a range of flavors, making it the ideal centerpiece for many satisfying meals.
These 14 rice recipes are delicious and perfect for the chilly season. They offer a mix of tastes and textures, from the tang of fresh herbs to the creaminess of cheese. So stop serving bland white rice and keep those winter blues at bay with every comforting spoonful of these rice dishes.
Chicken and Rice Salad with Fresh Basil and Lemon
The Chicken and Rice Salad with Fresh Basil and Lemon is a refreshing dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic basil, and zesty lemon. It’s a quick meal, taking about 30 minutes to prepare, and features wholesome ingredients like brown rice and fresh vegetables. This salad delivers a light yet satisfying taste, perfect for a winter lunch that won’t weigh you down.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Salad with Fresh Basil and Lemon
Shrimp Asparagus Risotto
Shrimp Asparagus Risotto is a luxurious dish that brings the warmth of a classic Italian risotto paired with succulent shrimp and tender asparagus. It takes about 40 minutes to prepare, resulting in a creamy and comforting dish. The flavors are balanced with garlic and Parmesan cheese, creating a rich taste experience that’s both hearty and refined.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Asparagus Risotto
Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice
Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice infuses the zing of lime and the freshness of cilantro into a one-pan dish that’s ready in under an hour. This recipe features juicy chicken thighs, white rice, and a burst of citrus flavor. It’s a simple yet vibrant dish that provides a zesty twist to your winter meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice
Taco Rice Skillet
The Taco Rice Skillet is a one-pot wonder that combines the bold flavors of a taco night with the heartiness of a rice dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, it includes ground beef, rice, and taco seasoning, topped with cheese. This skillet is a crowd-pleaser with its familiar taco taste in a comforting, easy-to-make rice form.
Get the Recipe: Taco Rice Skillet
Pork Fried Rice
Pork Fried Rice is a classic takeout favorite that you can recreate at home in about 30 minutes. This dish is a savory mix of rice, pork, eggs, and vegetables like carrots and peas. It’s a versatile recipe that delivers a satisfying umami flavor, making it a go-to comfort food during the colder months.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice
Coconut Cauliflower Rice
Coconut Cauliflower Rice is a delightful alternative to traditional rice, offering a low-carb option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish combines cauliflower rice with the creamy taste of coconut milk. It’s a light and aromatic side dish that pairs well with a variety of winter meals.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Cauliflower Rice
The perfect rice pilaf
The Perfect Rice Pilaf is a versatile side dish that complements any winter meal. With a cooking time of about 30 minutes, it features fluffy rice, aromatic spices, and a mix of vegetables. Its subtle seasoning and satisfying texture make it an essential addition to your culinary repertoire.
Get the Recipe: The perfect rice pilaf
Low Carb Sushi Rolls
Low Carb Sushi Rolls are a creative twist on traditional sushi, suitable for those following a low-carb diet. Taking about 30 minutes to prepare, these rolls use cauliflower rice and are filled with vegetables and fish. They offer the familiar sushi flavors without the extra carbs, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Sushi Rolls
Onigiri
Onigiri, a classic Japanese snack, is a simple and satisfying rice ball that’s ready in about 30 minutes. These rice balls are often filled with umami-packed ingredients like salmon or pickled plum. Onigiri is a convenient and comforting bite-sized treat, perfect for a quick winter snack or meal on the go.
Get the Recipe: Onigiri
Middle eastern tofu rice bowl
The Middle Eastern Tofu Rice Bowl is a hearty dish that brings together the rich flavors of the Middle East in about 45 minutes. It combines spiced tofu, rice, and a medley of vegetables, topped with a tahini sauce. This rice bowl is a flavorful and protein-packed option for a cozy winter dinner.
Get the Recipe: Middle eastern tofu rice bowl
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
Creamy Mushroom Risotto is a classic Italian dish that offers a rich and creamy texture, ready in about 45 minutes. It combines Arborio rice with earthy mushrooms and is finished with a touch of vegan butter for extra silkiness. This risotto is a deeply satisfying dish with a luxurious taste.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Risotto
Enchanted Rice with Grapes
Enchanted Rice with Grapes is a unique dish that infuses sweet and savory flavors into a meal ready in about 30 minutes. It’s made with rice, grapes, and almonds, providing a delightful crunch and burst of sweetness with each bite. This dish is an unexpected yet delicious way to enjoy rice during the winter season.
Get the Recipe: Enchanted Rice with Grapes
Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf
Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf is a hearty and healthy dish that takes about an hour to prepare. It features the nuttiness of wild rice and the sweetness of butternut squash, complemented by cranberries and pecans. This pilaf is a warm and inviting dish, ideal for a comforting winter meal.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf
Mujadara
Mujadara is a comforting Middle Eastern dish that consists of lentils, rice, and caramelized onions, taking about an hour to prepare. It’s a simple yet rich dish, seasoned with cumin and cinnamon, offering a warm and earthy flavor. Mujadara is a filling and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a chilly winter evening.
Get the Recipe: Mujadara